Final Fantasy are two words synonymous with not just the gaming industry but as a brand representing gaming in general. Put into perspective, the series in total has sold over 100 million copies throughout the world, making it one of the gaming's biggest institutions. Not many people can say they have missed Final Fantasy or not noticed it as it swept through the collective childhoods of multiple generations. Yet even the great Final Fantasy has taken a few missteps of late. The brilliant but flawed Final Fantasy XII seemed to be the start of it. After that the utterly terrible and drab Final Fantasy XIII dragged the series into a mire its still seemingly sat in. Final Fantasy XIV released to a critical slapping, with the game officially pulled and re-released a year later with the subtitle Realm Reborn. The game is now finally playable and quite good, making the company some money - but the damage is already done. Final Fantasy XV looks brilliant, but whereas in the past people looked forward to the game with bated breath, there is now a casual 'Hmm' from the collective masses of disappointed Final Fantasy fans. If Square Enix are really going to go back to their roots with their future games they need to channel the years between 1994 and 2000 especially with the Final Fantasy series. Final Fantasy VI (1994) was the first game that evolved the series past its cutesy image, bringing with it a mature storyline about identity and finding a place for yourself in the world. Final Fantasy VII (1997) needs no introduction or explanation. VIII (1999) and IX (2000) were the exact opposites of what a Final Fantasy could be and yet retained the brilliance of the series before the downward spiral started off by Final Fantasy X in 2001. In all, these ten games (or series') are the ones that Square Enix should be looking at if they are to reclaim their title from the pretenders like Bioware, Bethesda and Blizzard. Arise Sir Square, how we've have missed you. Like this article? Let us know in the comments section below.
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I am a middle aged Yorkshireman obsessed with Bad Religion, The Simpsons, movies and anything to do with gaming. I love everything to do with Final Fantasy, Metal Gear and will hold a discussion with anyone about anything in games.
